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Sisters of the Sword #1
The Swordmaster's Daughter
Whitefriars London 1604
When her father bans her from fighting after an unfortunate incident with a stray sword, Lucinda Evans is determined to continue fencing. She recruits a small group of women with an urgent need to defend themselves, training them in secret as the Sisters of the Sword. When the Sisters discover that two of their number were victims of the same cruel predator, they set out to bring him to justice, no matter what it takes.
Robert McCrae, the infuriatingly attractive heir of a Scottish Lord, cannot fathom why any woman has a need to fight, but when he fails to protect his only sister, he reluctantly seeks Lucinda’s help.
Plunged into a murky world of politics and duplicity, they are forced to work together, and faced with impossible choices. Loyalty or duty? Love or justice? The more he pulls, the more she pushes, and despite all of McCrae’s attempts to keep her safe, Lucinda strides on into danger, a danger she must ultimately face on her own.
When her father bans her from fighting after an unfortunate incident with a stray sword, Lucinda Evans is determined to continue fencing. She recruits a small group of women with an urgent need to defend themselves, training them in secret as the Sisters of the Sword. When the Sisters discover that two of their number were victims of the same cruel predator, they set out to bring him to justice, no matter what it takes.
Robert McCrae, the infuriatingly attractive heir of a Scottish Lord, cannot fathom why any woman has a need to fight, but when he fails to protect his only sister, he reluctantly seeks Lucinda’s help.
Plunged into a murky world of politics and duplicity, they are forced to work together, and faced with impossible choices. Loyalty or duty? Love or justice? The more he pulls, the more she pushes, and despite all of McCrae’s attempts to keep her safe, Lucinda strides on into danger, a danger she must ultimately face on her own.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
August 29, 2022
Truly a fun book to read. It has lots of action, a fantastic female lead and a good story supporting it.
I think the characters were were built. I I could relate to the descriptions of them and the actions that they took.
The book was written well and it was a very fast-paced read. These are the kind of books I like.
I loved how they put the book into the setting And the time period. Which gave our hero the opportunity to overcome a myriad of prejudices against women.
This is a good book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I think the characters were were built. I I could relate to the descriptions of them and the actions that they took.
The book was written well and it was a very fast-paced read. These are the kind of books I like.
I loved how they put the book into the setting And the time period. Which gave our hero the opportunity to overcome a myriad of prejudices against women.
This is a good book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 23, 2022
I was given an ARC through the BookSirens platform. TRIGGER: first and foremost, want to point out this book deals with the subject of rape. The author does an excellent job with the storyline empowering the women who were assaulted but I recognize some readers will want to steer clear of a book that has a storyline involving this subject.
Lucinda, the main character, was strong and talented. I really liked her and enjoyed reading from her point of view. I wish the love story was more developed. Who doesn’t LOVE a great love story?!?
If you love historical fiction I would highly recommend you read this book. It was a quick read, didn’t drag and was well written!
Lucinda, the main character, was strong and talented. I really liked her and enjoyed reading from her point of view. I wish the love story was more developed. Who doesn’t LOVE a great love story?!?
If you love historical fiction I would highly recommend you read this book. It was a quick read, didn’t drag and was well written!
July 29, 2022
Thank you Terri for sending us a copy to read and review.
The 1600’s in England was not a great era for the poor or women.
This story embeds a female empowerment that is uplifting and refreshing.
Strong, capable and knowledgeable women rule these pages.
Lucinda loves her sword.
Her skill and ability quite a standard that was very unusual for a girl.
Her father owning an academy where swordsmanship is taught, banned her from attending after some mishaps.
A strong willed and steadfast grandmother an influence that shapes her.
The need for self protection and the always lurking predatory men saw the need to establish a secret sword club for women that were fearful and had been attacked.
Not all men were bad and Lucinda catches the eye of several suitors.
She will need wit as she navigates through love.
History wasn’t made without strong females and this one had several.
They were not prepared to accept the status quo and challenged what they believed.
The unusual premise and elements of humour made this an enjoyable read.
The 1600’s in England was not a great era for the poor or women.
This story embeds a female empowerment that is uplifting and refreshing.
Strong, capable and knowledgeable women rule these pages.
Lucinda loves her sword.
Her skill and ability quite a standard that was very unusual for a girl.
Her father owning an academy where swordsmanship is taught, banned her from attending after some mishaps.
A strong willed and steadfast grandmother an influence that shapes her.
The need for self protection and the always lurking predatory men saw the need to establish a secret sword club for women that were fearful and had been attacked.
Not all men were bad and Lucinda catches the eye of several suitors.
She will need wit as she navigates through love.
History wasn’t made without strong females and this one had several.
They were not prepared to accept the status quo and challenged what they believed.
The unusual premise and elements of humour made this an enjoyable read.
September 27, 2022
In 1604, Lucinda Evans is the daughter of the Swordmaster. Her healer grandmother also lives with them. She is very gifted and busy. Lucinda is well-trained in advanced weapons to protect herself. Her father has forbidden her to practice anymore because it is unseemly. She is caught by Robert MacCrae
checking out his beautiful sword, by Roger. He does not believe that she knows what she is doing.
Robert MacCrae is a Scotsman who patronizes her father's fencing school. He has come to town with his uncle, Lord Cavendish. When his parents died his uncle became his sister and his guardian. Lord Cavendish is like a spymaster and Robert does whatever he says because he is the heir.
This story was a little different. He said he loved her, but his uncle didn't want him to marry her. He sent him on long trips and tried to intimidate her. I was not impressed with Robert, he said he loved her but wouldn't back her up. To me, I want a man not to disappear for six months at a time and not know if he will be back. The other characters were exciting and trying to overcome what happened to them. The plot was entertaining, kept your interest, and kept you reading.
I received this ARC from Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed it.
checking out his beautiful sword, by Roger. He does not believe that she knows what she is doing.
Robert MacCrae is a Scotsman who patronizes her father's fencing school. He has come to town with his uncle, Lord Cavendish. When his parents died his uncle became his sister and his guardian. Lord Cavendish is like a spymaster and Robert does whatever he says because he is the heir.
This story was a little different. He said he loved her, but his uncle didn't want him to marry her. He sent him on long trips and tried to intimidate her. I was not impressed with Robert, he said he loved her but wouldn't back her up. To me, I want a man not to disappear for six months at a time and not know if he will be back. The other characters were exciting and trying to overcome what happened to them. The plot was entertaining, kept your interest, and kept you reading.
I received this ARC from Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed it.
August 4, 2022
I adored The Swordmaster's Daughter. Lucinda is one of my new favourite literary heroines. She's that rare character - fun and likeable, but brave beyond belief when faced with cruelty, injustice and a violent male predator. For a bunch of 17th century women, the Sisters of the Sword give the #metoo movement a good nudge.
This novel has everything - pacy plot, compelling characters, terrific writing and there are moments of brilliant wit that had me laughing out loud. Oh, and there's a hot Scotsman (and I'm a bit partial to those!)
Highly recommend this one. You'll race through it.
This novel has everything - pacy plot, compelling characters, terrific writing and there are moments of brilliant wit that had me laughing out loud. Oh, and there's a hot Scotsman (and I'm a bit partial to those!)
Highly recommend this one. You'll race through it.
August 6, 2022
The Swordmaster's Daughter is Book 1 in The Sisters of the Sword Series by Terri Green. The book in 1604 when women did not have many privileges. Lucinda is the Sword Master's daughter and he had taught her fencing. I found Lucinda to be a wonderful character. When women were being attacked, I liked how Lucinda stepped up to the plate and taught the women self defense. Unfortunately, not everyone survived. Enjoyable book. I received an arc for free and an leaving my review voluntarily.
August 1, 2022
I was swept away by this lush and atmospheric novel with its strong, adventurous heroine Lucinda Evans, whose wit and wits are as sharp as her forbidden sword. Skillfully plotted and highly entertaining, this page-turning historical romance is perfect for fans of Philippa Gregory, or indeed anybody who likes to see a young woman standing her ground in a world dominated by powerful men.
April 23, 2025
An excellent mystery as well as an excellent historical fiction novel. This novel takes place in early 1600’s London and it’s described very well. All the characters are great too. A bit generic the writing is, but all in all a good novel.
August 1, 2022
Sass and Swordplay in a Swashbuckling Historical Adventure
“Zorro-esque with a feminine, feminist twist.”
The Swordmaster’s Daughter is a gripping, page-turning adventure. It is the first in a series and I can’t wait to read the next book. Ms Green not only keeps you on the edge of your seat but she also uses subtle details to immerse you in the politics, the squalor, the opportunity and the diversity of 1600s London. Her characters are witty and real, and she balances fear and the chase with laugh-out-loud moments of entertainment.
Feisty Lucinda Evans is frustrated by a woman’s lot. She’d rather be refining her rapier technique and serving justice on the sexual predators roaming the streets of London than serving ale to men she knows she could best with a sword, but with a king on the throne and men ruling parliament, her chances of obtaining freedom are slim - even slimmer when handsome nobleman Robert McCrae is sending her admiring glances, scheming with her father and pontificating on the need to protect the fairer sex. When an opportunity arises for her to teach a group of women to protect themselves against future attacks, she seizes it, and is unwittingly dragged into McCrae’s murky world of international politics and spies. The two argue about everything, including their growing attraction to one another, but fate - and politics - seem lined up against them. It takes their combined ingenuity and the help of the Sisters of the Sword to identify and bring to justice both the spy determined to derail peace negotiations with Spanish and the sexual predator attacking women of all classes. The Swordmaster’s Daughter is a fantastic debut and a must-read for any reader who has ever challenged the status quo and dared the world to accept them as they are.
“Zorro-esque with a feminine, feminist twist.”
The Swordmaster’s Daughter is a gripping, page-turning adventure. It is the first in a series and I can’t wait to read the next book. Ms Green not only keeps you on the edge of your seat but she also uses subtle details to immerse you in the politics, the squalor, the opportunity and the diversity of 1600s London. Her characters are witty and real, and she balances fear and the chase with laugh-out-loud moments of entertainment.
Feisty Lucinda Evans is frustrated by a woman’s lot. She’d rather be refining her rapier technique and serving justice on the sexual predators roaming the streets of London than serving ale to men she knows she could best with a sword, but with a king on the throne and men ruling parliament, her chances of obtaining freedom are slim - even slimmer when handsome nobleman Robert McCrae is sending her admiring glances, scheming with her father and pontificating on the need to protect the fairer sex. When an opportunity arises for her to teach a group of women to protect themselves against future attacks, she seizes it, and is unwittingly dragged into McCrae’s murky world of international politics and spies. The two argue about everything, including their growing attraction to one another, but fate - and politics - seem lined up against them. It takes their combined ingenuity and the help of the Sisters of the Sword to identify and bring to justice both the spy determined to derail peace negotiations with Spanish and the sexual predator attacking women of all classes. The Swordmaster’s Daughter is a fantastic debut and a must-read for any reader who has ever challenged the status quo and dared the world to accept them as they are.
August 2, 2022
A fun, action packed adventure with a serious undertone. What happens when suddenly you can’t use the skill you’ve mastered and love simply because you’re a woman? No longer able to disguise herself as a boy, Lucinda must learn how to live as a woman in a man’s world. She also finds a way to secretly help and empower other women, and catch a criminal. I thoroughly enjoyed this romp through post-plague London, a kind of female version of The Three Musketeers. The characters were engaging, the storyline had enough twists and turns to keep me interested and the social and moral dilemmas it deals with are as relevant now as they were in the 1600s. The author’s use of historical events and characters added to the believability of the story. I’m looking forward to more adventures with the Sisters of the Sword! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Highly recommend.
August 13, 2022
Such a fun read but still delivers an important story about the challenges faced by women in a man's world, and alas I could be talking about any era not just the 17th century. Great historical detail (delighted to learn Moll was a real person) and lots of witty innuendo-ful one-liners. A riveting swash and buck with a dash of romance.
July 24, 2022
I couldn’t put this terrific adventure down. This is a book you won’t be able to stop thinking and grinning about.
Whitefriars London 1604
Lucinda Evans is trained thoroughly in sword fighting and the defensive arts. But one fateful day she is drawn to the magnificent sword of Robert McCrae, heir of a Scottish Laird— this encounter sees her prohibited from all contact with the weaponry.
When Lucinda meets petty pilferer Moll, despite their differences, neither is about to step away from a fight. A series of attacks and shared concern for women’s safety forces them to action and thrusts them together. Before long, Lucinda finds herself leading a band of women and teaching them fencing and self-defence— their lives more similar than first supposed.
Robbie has never met a feisty, yet beautiful woman like Lucinda before, and despite more serious matters (hint; intrigue and duplicitous politics) he continues to insist on protecting her. But she doesn’t need any man’s protection.
The spar and parry of the dialogue between Robbie and Lucinda is wickedly funny, while quirky Moll is a brilliant foil (pardon the pun) for Lucinda. I was immediately invested in the diversity of vividly painted characters. It has everything, action, humour, romance, and suspense. There are darker moments too, (*trigger warning-rape) but these are sensitively handled.
I loved Lucinda and her band of Sisters and can’t wait to read the next book in the SISTERS OF THE SWORD series. It really is a terrific read and captures the swashbuckling mood of the period, perfectly.
It has the action packed feel of The Three Musketeers— wearing corsets. It’s uniquely funny and a rollicking good read – there’s something very Bridgerton-esque about it too.
Whitefriars London 1604
Lucinda Evans is trained thoroughly in sword fighting and the defensive arts. But one fateful day she is drawn to the magnificent sword of Robert McCrae, heir of a Scottish Laird— this encounter sees her prohibited from all contact with the weaponry.
When Lucinda meets petty pilferer Moll, despite their differences, neither is about to step away from a fight. A series of attacks and shared concern for women’s safety forces them to action and thrusts them together. Before long, Lucinda finds herself leading a band of women and teaching them fencing and self-defence— their lives more similar than first supposed.
Robbie has never met a feisty, yet beautiful woman like Lucinda before, and despite more serious matters (hint; intrigue and duplicitous politics) he continues to insist on protecting her. But she doesn’t need any man’s protection.
The spar and parry of the dialogue between Robbie and Lucinda is wickedly funny, while quirky Moll is a brilliant foil (pardon the pun) for Lucinda. I was immediately invested in the diversity of vividly painted characters. It has everything, action, humour, romance, and suspense. There are darker moments too, (*trigger warning-rape) but these are sensitively handled.
I loved Lucinda and her band of Sisters and can’t wait to read the next book in the SISTERS OF THE SWORD series. It really is a terrific read and captures the swashbuckling mood of the period, perfectly.
It has the action packed feel of The Three Musketeers— wearing corsets. It’s uniquely funny and a rollicking good read – there’s something very Bridgerton-esque about it too.
August 1, 2022
Lucinda Evans is the only surviving child of a swordmaster. He has taught her everything he knows, but as she grows up, and their country grows more volatile, he forbids her from picking up a weapon and revealing just how talented she is with a sword. Lucinda witnesses and hears about women who are victims of men's brutality and she vows to help them forging a secret defense club.
While I like Lucinda as a Character and admired her strength, I think there was much development needed in the book. The pacing was off in the first quarter of the book which made it hard to get into the story. I also did not like the way Lucinda and Robert were "led" together, it was a very rough pairing and could have used some refinement.
I received an ARC and voluntarily decided to leave a response.
While I like Lucinda as a Character and admired her strength, I think there was much development needed in the book. The pacing was off in the first quarter of the book which made it hard to get into the story. I also did not like the way Lucinda and Robert were "led" together, it was a very rough pairing and could have used some refinement.
I received an ARC and voluntarily decided to leave a response.
July 12, 2022
I was able to read this ARC thanks to Book Sirens. I love historical fiction, so my interest was piqued immediately. I thoroughly enjoyed this one. It was very well written and it moved pretty quickly. It combines historical fiction, swordplay, intrigue, mystery, and romance all in one! Lucinda is definitely not your typical woman, and I love her for it. Trigger Warning: This book does deal with rape. I appreciate the way it was dealt with as it was not overly graphic. Also, thanks to Lucinda and her Sisters of the Sword, we see these ladies grow from "victims" to strong women who can defend themselves. A definite winner in my opinion and I look forward to the next book!
August 8, 2022
This was my first book, by this author, and I hope not my last. I read about reviewers complaining about historical accuracy and it just makes my blood boil at such inane complaints. This is a story, a romance, a swashbuckling book about women being self-aware and protecting themselves, NOT a historical missive! The plot was easily followed and the villain revealed at the end as it should be. I grew to like the sword master's daughter very much and admire the character. I am also looking forward to more if the author is willing. I definitely highly recommend this book!
July 31, 2022
The Swordmaster’s Daughter is an entertaining and witty historical romp and Lucinda is my kind of character - a feisty, strong, resourceful yet flawed protagonist. The intriguing plot had me riveted, I loved the seamlessly threaded historical facts and I laughed out loud numerous times. A fabulous book for readers of historicals, romance, espionage and crime!
August 3, 2022
A fabulous read full of wit, danger, suspense and terrific characters. Lucinda and her Sisters of the Sword were strong, captivating women. I loved the sparks between Lucinda and Robbie. An action packed adventure that draws you into that time in history. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 29, 2024
I definitely enjoyed the heroine’s incredible skills in this story. And she’s sassy to boot. The hero is perfect for her and the sisterhood she forms out of necessity spells more stories to come!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 15, 2022
An incredible read. Not the book I would usually pick up but so glad I did! It is so well written I couldn’t put it down till I got to the end (and boy what an ending!). HIGHLY recommend!!
December 7, 2022
ARC kindly provided from the author/publisher via BookSirens for an honest review.
I knew the subject matter in this book was going to be heavy, I read the synopsis. But still you’re never really prepared for it. Trigger warning for all going forward a plot point of this book is about a serial rapist.
It is not the main plot, that is about the empowerment of women in a male dominant society and how they come together to take back their strength and agency.
Lucinda is the only child of a sonless Swordmaster; she grew up learning all manner of self-defense and weapon techniques available in the beginning of the 17th century from her father and those in his academy. When her gender can no long be hidden beneath male clothes, she can no longer train or fight in her father’s academy. She must now help clean-up, and serve after the males that do, along with help her grandmother who is a skilled midwife, and healer. When it becomes apparent to her, by assisting her grandmother, that there has been a string of attacks on females in London she soon finders herself operating an underground sword training and self-defense class for women, several of whom are victims. The Sisters of the Sword begin to piece together the evidence they need to find the evil plaguing their city all while learning to defend themselves in a world where men have all the power.
Along the way an attractive Scottish Lord gets in the way, bringing along his Uncle who will prove to be one of the most dangerous men Lucinda will ever meet.
Yes, there is ‘budding’ romance between Lucinda and the attractive Scottish Lord, but it isn’t really fleshed out too far. I believe because that will have to be a bigger plot in the next book as it will involve his Uncle and his underhanded need to black mail and control everyone.
And there is the mystery of who the predator is; I figured it out about halfway through? But then there were a few twists that had me doubting at points. But honestly, we were here for the survivors, and what they needed to do to heal and feel strong again.
I loved this book. Several well fleshed out moving plots that lead to a greater arc that I have no doubt span into the following books. The characters are strong, well-written ad diverse in personality. The author clearly put a lot of heart and time into the historical aspects of this book. The details about where and when and how the characters were getting around different neighborhoods in 1604 were well described. I’m easily taken out of a book if I cannot imagine or follow a character around in their surrounding and that did not happen to me once. Despite this book having a very dark theme; there were many great moments of the women taking back their agency. As well as some fun rather humors scenes and rather witty dialogue to lighten up between the heavy bits.
This book in a way reminds me of one of my favourite series I read as a kid. The plots aren’t really similar in anyway other than female swordmaster fighting for her place in a male dominated world and the writing style is very different. In this book it is much more mature, but it still reminded me of the Song of the Lioness and that added to my enjoyment of this book very much.
I knew the subject matter in this book was going to be heavy, I read the synopsis. But still you’re never really prepared for it. Trigger warning for all going forward a plot point of this book is about a serial rapist.
It is not the main plot, that is about the empowerment of women in a male dominant society and how they come together to take back their strength and agency.
Lucinda is the only child of a sonless Swordmaster; she grew up learning all manner of self-defense and weapon techniques available in the beginning of the 17th century from her father and those in his academy. When her gender can no long be hidden beneath male clothes, she can no longer train or fight in her father’s academy. She must now help clean-up, and serve after the males that do, along with help her grandmother who is a skilled midwife, and healer. When it becomes apparent to her, by assisting her grandmother, that there has been a string of attacks on females in London she soon finders herself operating an underground sword training and self-defense class for women, several of whom are victims. The Sisters of the Sword begin to piece together the evidence they need to find the evil plaguing their city all while learning to defend themselves in a world where men have all the power.
Along the way an attractive Scottish Lord gets in the way, bringing along his Uncle who will prove to be one of the most dangerous men Lucinda will ever meet.
Yes, there is ‘budding’ romance between Lucinda and the attractive Scottish Lord, but it isn’t really fleshed out too far. I believe because that will have to be a bigger plot in the next book as it will involve his Uncle and his underhanded need to black mail and control everyone.
And there is the mystery of who the predator is; I figured it out about halfway through? But then there were a few twists that had me doubting at points. But honestly, we were here for the survivors, and what they needed to do to heal and feel strong again.
I loved this book. Several well fleshed out moving plots that lead to a greater arc that I have no doubt span into the following books. The characters are strong, well-written ad diverse in personality. The author clearly put a lot of heart and time into the historical aspects of this book. The details about where and when and how the characters were getting around different neighborhoods in 1604 were well described. I’m easily taken out of a book if I cannot imagine or follow a character around in their surrounding and that did not happen to me once. Despite this book having a very dark theme; there were many great moments of the women taking back their agency. As well as some fun rather humors scenes and rather witty dialogue to lighten up between the heavy bits.
This book in a way reminds me of one of my favourite series I read as a kid. The plots aren’t really similar in anyway other than female swordmaster fighting for her place in a male dominated world and the writing style is very different. In this book it is much more mature, but it still reminded me of the Song of the Lioness and that added to my enjoyment of this book very much.
November 25, 2022
I received an ARC of this novel through Reedsy Discovery.
The Swordmaster's Daughter follows Lucinda Evans, a young woman in 1604 London. She lives with her father and grandmother at her father's fencing academy. Sadly, now that she is a young lady, Lucinda is not allowed to study at the academy. She begins to practice on her own. Soon, she finds that there are other women who want to learn to fight. A series of violent attacks leave local women shaken. These girls, and others, from all walks of life, are determined to learn how to defend themselves. After convincing Lucinda to teach them, they decide to call themselves the Sisters of the Sword. Of course, the Sisters must keep their group a secret.
Further complicating matters in Lucinda's life is the arrival of the handsome and annoying Scotsman, Robert McCrae, his politically-inclined uncle, and a delegation of Spanish fencers. Suddenly thrust into a world where she does not understand the rules, Lucinda must navigate her new situation. She is also determined to figure out who is behind the attacks before they strike again.
Historical fiction is difficult to get right. Often, you have modern characters put in a historic setting, not relatable characters who are historically accurate. Lucinda Evans and the other characters feels like historical characters, but they are still relatable. Instead of modern characters being brought to the past, readers are brought there. We are placed in their world and taught to see things through their eyes. This makes the story more effective and easy to be immersed in.
The conflicts between the characters are also feel real. There are reasons for the different ways characters treat each other, and those reasons are laid out well. There is nothing that seems forced about them. The Sisters of the Sword have good reasons for not getting along at times, because they are from very different social circles.
The romance is also very well done. It is not overwhelming, and the different elements of the story balance each other out very well. The chemistry between the two characters is believable. Lucinda and Robert get off on the wrong foot, and follow a lovely enemies to friends to lovers path. It can be difficult to do this convincingly, but this novel succeeded. Both characters took time to warm up to each other, and their journey made sense in the story and for their characters.
Readers will want to check for content warnings before starting The Swordmaster's Daughter. Because of the nature of the mystery and the attacks on the women, there are some events that might be triggering to some readers. However, it was done very tastefully and with no extra detail. The focus was on the recovery, making it even more powerful. The focus was more on resilience than the original trauma.
If you like historical fiction mysteries with a compelling romance, this is definitely a book to check out. Hopefully, there will be more books with the rest of the Sisters soon!
The Swordmaster's Daughter follows Lucinda Evans, a young woman in 1604 London. She lives with her father and grandmother at her father's fencing academy. Sadly, now that she is a young lady, Lucinda is not allowed to study at the academy. She begins to practice on her own. Soon, she finds that there are other women who want to learn to fight. A series of violent attacks leave local women shaken. These girls, and others, from all walks of life, are determined to learn how to defend themselves. After convincing Lucinda to teach them, they decide to call themselves the Sisters of the Sword. Of course, the Sisters must keep their group a secret.
Further complicating matters in Lucinda's life is the arrival of the handsome and annoying Scotsman, Robert McCrae, his politically-inclined uncle, and a delegation of Spanish fencers. Suddenly thrust into a world where she does not understand the rules, Lucinda must navigate her new situation. She is also determined to figure out who is behind the attacks before they strike again.
Historical fiction is difficult to get right. Often, you have modern characters put in a historic setting, not relatable characters who are historically accurate. Lucinda Evans and the other characters feels like historical characters, but they are still relatable. Instead of modern characters being brought to the past, readers are brought there. We are placed in their world and taught to see things through their eyes. This makes the story more effective and easy to be immersed in.
The conflicts between the characters are also feel real. There are reasons for the different ways characters treat each other, and those reasons are laid out well. There is nothing that seems forced about them. The Sisters of the Sword have good reasons for not getting along at times, because they are from very different social circles.
The romance is also very well done. It is not overwhelming, and the different elements of the story balance each other out very well. The chemistry between the two characters is believable. Lucinda and Robert get off on the wrong foot, and follow a lovely enemies to friends to lovers path. It can be difficult to do this convincingly, but this novel succeeded. Both characters took time to warm up to each other, and their journey made sense in the story and for their characters.
Readers will want to check for content warnings before starting The Swordmaster's Daughter. Because of the nature of the mystery and the attacks on the women, there are some events that might be triggering to some readers. However, it was done very tastefully and with no extra detail. The focus was on the recovery, making it even more powerful. The focus was more on resilience than the original trauma.
If you like historical fiction mysteries with a compelling romance, this is definitely a book to check out. Hopefully, there will be more books with the rest of the Sisters soon!
June 1, 2023
'Tis a truth universally acknowledged that any book featuring a lady with a sword on its cover will invariably garner my attention.
The Swordmaster's Daughter introduces Lucinda Evans, daughter of a fencing master and proprietor of a fencing academy, who has no intention of being confined to the tedious role society envisions for a woman. A chance acquaintance with a cutpurse intent on learning the sword gives Lucinda a chance to train and pass along the fencing skills her father once taught her and now has banned her from exercising, which soon turns into her leading her own fencing class for women in secret - and sets her on the trail of a brutal rapist several of her new friends have already fallen victim to.
Now, this whole premise? Fierce lady fencer hunting down a rapist and leading secret training sessions with a bunch of girls and women from all walks of life who soon begin to call themselves the Sisters of the Sword? It's fantastic, and wonderfully executed as well. Lucinda is a strong, independent-minded protagonist with an impressive but believable skill set who, as she frequently makes clear, has absolutely no need of any overbearing male to come to her rescue. The rest of the Sisters, too, have the makings of great characters whom I'm already looking forward to getting to know better.
It's well written, the pacing is perfect, Green has the fencing lingo down and clearly is no slouch in the research department otherwise, either. So, so much to love in this book.
Where it fell down for me a little is the romance. And by "fell down" I mean I wish it hadn't been there.
Every single male character bar Nathan (and perhaps Lucinda's father right at the end for about half a page) in this book is absolutely insufferable, and that very much includes Robert McCrae. When, oh when, will we stop being served up "love interests" who are introduced by mocking and belittling the female protagonist of a book and who, at least at the beginning, keep pursuing someone who strongly rebuffs them and are distinctly hazy on the concept of consent, making advances and getting physical despite being told to stop? That Lucinda ends up liking, even enthusiastically participating, in being kissed (and more) is not the part people should be focussing on. It's the part where Robert keeps following her around, touching her, and coming on to her in a variety of ways, clearly making her uncomfortable, after she repeatedly says NO in no uncertain terms that ought to be what people pay attention to - it's a behaviour I simply cannot abide, a huge red flag that gave me a strong dislike of the character and the romance subplot.
That aside, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It's good swashbuckling fun with a heavy dose of "Down with the patriarchy!" that I'm very much onboard with - now, where do I sign up to be a Sister of the Sword?
*** I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
The Swordmaster's Daughter introduces Lucinda Evans, daughter of a fencing master and proprietor of a fencing academy, who has no intention of being confined to the tedious role society envisions for a woman. A chance acquaintance with a cutpurse intent on learning the sword gives Lucinda a chance to train and pass along the fencing skills her father once taught her and now has banned her from exercising, which soon turns into her leading her own fencing class for women in secret - and sets her on the trail of a brutal rapist several of her new friends have already fallen victim to.
Now, this whole premise? Fierce lady fencer hunting down a rapist and leading secret training sessions with a bunch of girls and women from all walks of life who soon begin to call themselves the Sisters of the Sword? It's fantastic, and wonderfully executed as well. Lucinda is a strong, independent-minded protagonist with an impressive but believable skill set who, as she frequently makes clear, has absolutely no need of any overbearing male to come to her rescue. The rest of the Sisters, too, have the makings of great characters whom I'm already looking forward to getting to know better.
It's well written, the pacing is perfect, Green has the fencing lingo down and clearly is no slouch in the research department otherwise, either. So, so much to love in this book.
Where it fell down for me a little is the romance. And by "fell down" I mean I wish it hadn't been there.
Every single male character bar Nathan (and perhaps Lucinda's father right at the end for about half a page) in this book is absolutely insufferable, and that very much includes Robert McCrae. When, oh when, will we stop being served up "love interests" who are introduced by mocking and belittling the female protagonist of a book and who, at least at the beginning, keep pursuing someone who strongly rebuffs them and are distinctly hazy on the concept of consent, making advances and getting physical despite being told to stop? That Lucinda ends up liking, even enthusiastically participating, in being kissed (and more) is not the part people should be focussing on. It's the part where Robert keeps following her around, touching her, and coming on to her in a variety of ways, clearly making her uncomfortable, after she repeatedly says NO in no uncertain terms that ought to be what people pay attention to - it's a behaviour I simply cannot abide, a huge red flag that gave me a strong dislike of the character and the romance subplot.
That aside, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It's good swashbuckling fun with a heavy dose of "Down with the patriarchy!" that I'm very much onboard with - now, where do I sign up to be a Sister of the Sword?
*** I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
March 1, 2023
This was such a fun book! I immediately thought of Three Musketeers when I first read this blurb and thought that it was a retelling of the story, but from a woman's point of view. I read a YA book not too long ago that ended up being this kind of story. But this was an original story set roughly 20 years before the time of the Three Musketeers and it takes place in London.
The author was inspired by several events in history, which she discusses at the end of the book, including the strife between Spain and England, a bad plague, different monarchs, treaties, and even some of the characters are inspired by real-life people. Sadly, Lucinda was not one of them, but it was cool to read her note separating fact from fiction. While not necessary, it added to my enjoyment of the story.
I loved Lucinda's character and how she fought for what was right rather than what was proper. Her grandmother was awesome and although she was willing to give Lucinda leeway, she had the wisdom to know when to fight and when to keep the peace. I loved how supportive she was of Lucinda. Moll was really cool and one of the characters based on a historical person and she really added to the story. While Robert McCrae was your stereotypical Scotsman archetype hero, I loved his interactions with Lucinda. Even if he was a classic alpha hero, I loved how Lucinda was able to change his mind a little about the roles of women.
As for fencing, I know nothing about it, but I loved reading the fighting and training scenes. Green did a great job writing exciting scenes, especially the one near the end with Lucinda (I won't spoil it for you). I loved everything about the sisters of the sword, and some of the conversations were hilarious, especially when you consider this story was set in the early 1600s. This book was a great mix of action, adventure, mystery, and romance. The only thing is that I didn't realize this was a series, so when Lucinda solved the mystery, but things were kind of left hanging, I quickly checked and realized there was a second book. Thank goodness! I have since grabbed a copy and will be reading that soon!
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I recommend this to those who enjoy action, adventure, mystery, and romance.
The author was inspired by several events in history, which she discusses at the end of the book, including the strife between Spain and England, a bad plague, different monarchs, treaties, and even some of the characters are inspired by real-life people. Sadly, Lucinda was not one of them, but it was cool to read her note separating fact from fiction. While not necessary, it added to my enjoyment of the story.
I loved Lucinda's character and how she fought for what was right rather than what was proper. Her grandmother was awesome and although she was willing to give Lucinda leeway, she had the wisdom to know when to fight and when to keep the peace. I loved how supportive she was of Lucinda. Moll was really cool and one of the characters based on a historical person and she really added to the story. While Robert McCrae was your stereotypical Scotsman archetype hero, I loved his interactions with Lucinda. Even if he was a classic alpha hero, I loved how Lucinda was able to change his mind a little about the roles of women.
As for fencing, I know nothing about it, but I loved reading the fighting and training scenes. Green did a great job writing exciting scenes, especially the one near the end with Lucinda (I won't spoil it for you). I loved everything about the sisters of the sword, and some of the conversations were hilarious, especially when you consider this story was set in the early 1600s. This book was a great mix of action, adventure, mystery, and romance. The only thing is that I didn't realize this was a series, so when Lucinda solved the mystery, but things were kind of left hanging, I quickly checked and realized there was a second book. Thank goodness! I have since grabbed a copy and will be reading that soon!
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I recommend this to those who enjoy action, adventure, mystery, and romance.
August 1, 2022
Lucinda Evans, the swordmaster's daughter is better with a sword and in fighting than any man but she's not allowed to show off her talents. She forms a secret society for the reason of teaching women how to defend themselves. So why can't all the men in her life see the value in this? Especially Robert McCrae, annoying Scotsman. But when his sister gets into trouble, he turns to Lucinda for help. Now she must use all her skills and knowledge to defeat a very dangerous villain.
This was a very powerfully written, adventure story with just a touch of romance thrown in. It is very pro-woman power which I loved, yet still honored the time setting where women were owned and had very few freedoms. I liked the range of characters, particularly Moll who added some cheekiness and thought the storyline was very unique.
There were only few things for me that prevented this from being a 5-star story. One was that in the first half of the story things did drag along a bit, got a bit boring, and lost my interest. I found myself skimming along pages. There were also many scenes that were choppy. Lastly, there wasn't much development in the romance between Lucinda and Robert, it felt like all of a sudden they were a couple. It really needed more of a build and at least some attraction between them. I never felt that Lucinda was romantically inclined towards him.
While I thought this was a good story, a very interesting and unique storyline, very strong writing from the author, it was missing something for me and didn't really hold my interest until near the end. I would recommend this story and this author to others but I personally wouldn't rush to read the next installment of the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a very powerfully written, adventure story with just a touch of romance thrown in. It is very pro-woman power which I loved, yet still honored the time setting where women were owned and had very few freedoms. I liked the range of characters, particularly Moll who added some cheekiness and thought the storyline was very unique.
There were only few things for me that prevented this from being a 5-star story. One was that in the first half of the story things did drag along a bit, got a bit boring, and lost my interest. I found myself skimming along pages. There were also many scenes that were choppy. Lastly, there wasn't much development in the romance between Lucinda and Robert, it felt like all of a sudden they were a couple. It really needed more of a build and at least some attraction between them. I never felt that Lucinda was romantically inclined towards him.
While I thought this was a good story, a very interesting and unique storyline, very strong writing from the author, it was missing something for me and didn't really hold my interest until near the end. I would recommend this story and this author to others but I personally wouldn't rush to read the next installment of the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 3, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this novel. It depicted a seedy London of intrigue in the 1600s. Some of the characters are based on real people of the time. The main characters are the author's creations and they are truly wonderful. I particularly loved the main female character: Lucinda (the Swordmaster's Daughter) who through the sad death of her mother and brother became skilled at fencing as she longed to replace her lost brother in her father's world. As she becomes a young women it is no longer proper for her to fight in the fencing school so she is a 'kind of bar girl'. At the same time she has been helping her Grandmother who is a midwife and healer.
The story is skillful as the fencing school allows Lucinda to mingle with nobility and court people who are not of her world. The midwifery helping of her Grandmother brings her into the birthing, miscarriage or aborting world of all social levels of women - it also brings her into the mystery of this story: a violent rapist who takes women by surprise (working and nobility) ties them up and brutalizes them (some readers have asked that there be a trigger warning at the beginning of the book - I am not sure as the subject is treated with historical sensitivity - but that is my opinion).
Lucinda in this story becomes a hidden fencing tutor to a group of women who want to protect themselves and find who is the rapist…….
Another character is a Scot - who trains at the fencing parlour - this noble person is woven into the story and becomes a kind of romantic story with Lucinda - to be continued in the next book of this series which I am reading this week.
This is a good, atmospherically, historical mystery set in a rather shady period.
I really enjoyed this novel. It depicted a seedy London of intrigue in the 1600s. Some of the characters are based on real people of the time. The main characters are the author's creations and they are truly wonderful. I particularly loved the main female character: Lucinda (the Swordmaster's Daughter) who through the sad death of her mother and brother became skilled at fencing as she longed to replace her lost brother in her father's world. As she becomes a young women it is no longer proper for her to fight in the fencing school so she is a 'kind of bar girl'. At the same time she has been helping her Grandmother who is a midwife and healer.
The story is skillful as the fencing school allows Lucinda to mingle with nobility and court people who are not of her world. The midwifery helping of her Grandmother brings her into the birthing, miscarriage or aborting world of all social levels of women - it also brings her into the mystery of this story: a violent rapist who takes women by surprise (working and nobility) ties them up and brutalizes them (some readers have asked that there be a trigger warning at the beginning of the book - I am not sure as the subject is treated with historical sensitivity - but that is my opinion).
Lucinda in this story becomes a hidden fencing tutor to a group of women who want to protect themselves and find who is the rapist…….
Another character is a Scot - who trains at the fencing parlour - this noble person is woven into the story and becomes a kind of romantic story with Lucinda - to be continued in the next book of this series which I am reading this week.
This is a good, atmospherically, historical mystery set in a rather shady period.
January 8, 2023
This was an amazing story. Lucinda is a strong woman who has been raised sword fighting. When she grew up it became wrong for her to compete with men and was reduced to to work serving the men as they train. When local maids were attacked she starts to train the women to sword fight and learn to defend themselves. She attracts the attention of Robbie McCrae who declares that she will be his. I loved the strength that Lucinda has and how she stands up for what she feels is right and how mischievious Robbie is with Lucinda as he courts her.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 11, 2023
I loved this story. I received a copy as a Goodreads giveaway and I went in totally blind. The story was so intriguing and I couldn’t put the book down! The characters were so easy to love! I loved all of the aspects from the mystery, romance, and the empowerment that the characters made me feel. I can’t wait to read the next book!
August 26, 2022
A great historical Romance that held my attention throughout my time reading it. It has a great who done it that needs to be solved because it affects the main characters new friends.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and will definitely be reading other books from this author.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and will definitely be reading other books from this author.
January 17, 2023
Loved this. Such a strong, fiery female protagonist. Looking forward to reading the second in the series.
April 21, 2025
I enjoyed the overall storyline and some of the secondary characters, which is what helped keep my rating at 3 stars.
I'm not usually one to pin-point or complain about errors in a book, but it felt like there were so many moments where part of the quotation marks were missing, or commas were left out. I originally jokingly highlighted the first few that popped up (reading on my Kindle), but it kept occurring, so I just gave up. While usually that doesn't bug me so much, sometimes it felt like the sentences were hard to read/understand because it was just one long run on.
Also could have done without "Robbie"
I'm not usually one to pin-point or complain about errors in a book, but it felt like there were so many moments where part of the quotation marks were missing, or commas were left out. I originally jokingly highlighted the first few that popped up (reading on my Kindle), but it kept occurring, so I just gave up. While usually that doesn't bug me so much, sometimes it felt like the sentences were hard to read/understand because it was just one long run on.
Also could have done without "Robbie"
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